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How to Change Body Design of Motor Vehicle in LTO

Changing the body design of a motor vehicle is yet another one of the many types of car modifications allowed by the Land Transportation Office (LTO). Not many people want to do it, but it isn’t an unusual thing to do at all. Some who do it do so to improve the vehicle’s performance while others do so to showcase their individuality through a unique car or to improve their car for just plain old fun. Whatever the reason, know that there are certain standards and parameters regarding changing vehicle body design and these are all implemented by the LTO in the interest of road safety, and environmental protection, among others. 

The LTO standards for changing the body design of the motor vehicle are lifted off of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UN-ECE) standard for motor vehicles—a standard adopted by many countries in the ASEAN region, including the Philippines who used it as the concrete basis for the guidelines to car modification in the country. To learn more about the standards, requirements and procedures in changing the body design of your motor vehicle safely at the LTO, we created this simple, easy-to-follow guide for you. 

change body design of vehicle in lto

LTO Vehicle Modifications: Change Body Design

There are different types of car or vehicle modifications. However, for our purposes, we are only discussing the changes in body design for private and for-hire motor vehicles in the country. Just like other types of changes in motor vehicles though, any change in the body design of a motor vehicle inherently changes the factory original look and exchanges it for a unique-looking customized car tailor-made to your needs and preferences.

Changing the body design of your vehicle refers to changes of designs on parts meant to protect the driver, passengers, and other road users. Changing the body design usually refers to changes in these parts that are mostly attached to the metal shell (unibody) and usually include changing or replacing shock-absorbing components, radiator grilles, vehicle’s roof, hood, fenders, trunk lid, doors, and windows.

Benefits of Changing the Body Design of a Motor Vehicle

Being able to change your vehicle’s body design at will means enjoying the following benefits: 

  • You may convert your vehicle into one that suits your needs and preferences 
  • A change in vehicle body design may also be a form of expression or a showcase of personality.
  • Depending on the type of change you wish to make on the car body design, you may be able to enjoy better car performance.
  • You may be able to get a safer car, provided that the body design change is made for your convenience.
  • It gives you freedom to decide what you want your car to look like.

Eligibility to Change the Body Design of a Motor Vehicle

Just like when changing the body, changing the body design of a motor vehicle is allowed to anyone who owns a registered motor vehicle and who intends to change his vehicle body design for whatever reason. These changes are allowed to the same group of people, provided that they can present all the requirements and pay all the relevant LTO fees.

Requirements for Changing the Body Design of a Motor Vehicle

Car modifications resulting in changes in the car body design requires re-registration at the LTO to inform the relevant authorities of the changes. Like when you are applying to change the body of your motor vehicle, along with the steps, procedure requires the following list of documents from the applicants.

General Requirements

The basic requirements include the following:

Additional Requirements

The need for additional documents may vary depending on the type of change the car owner wishes to apply for. For changes in the car body design, here’s a list of the additional requirements 

  • LTFRB electronic confirmation (For Hire)
  • Original Joint Affidavit of Change Body indicating source of body
  • Original Certificate of Registration (CR) and latest original Official Receipt (OR) of payment
  • Original copy of Sales Invoice of Body
  • Affidavit of Change of Body  Design
  • Clearance from Philippine National Police-Traffic Management Group (PNP-TMG)
  • Endorsement from the Insurance Company
  • Actual inspection of MV with duly accomplished Motor Vehicle Inspection Report (MVIR)
  • Confirmation of Dealer’s Report from Registration Section / Regional Office
  • Taxpayer’s Identification Number (TIN)

How to File Application for Change Body Design of Motor Vehicles

Changing your vehicle body design is a simple LTO process. Like other LTO transactions, it does require submission of a certain set of documentary requirements.  Plus depending on the type of change you wish to make, but the procedures for doing so remain the same.

To apply for a change in body design for your vehicle, you may follow these steps:

Step 1: Visit any of the LTO Office closest to you. 

Step 2: Secure a queue number at the LTO officer-in-charge and wait for your turn.

Step 3: Once your number is called, proceed to the transaction counters. 

Step 4: Submit all the required documents to the Evaluator for evaluation and computation of fees.

Step 5: Once the evaluation is completed, get the actual inspection of motor vehicles with duly accomplished Motor Vehicle Inspection Report (MVIR) done.

Step 6: Once the MVIR is ready, proceed to the queue for the cashier window and wait for your turn.

Step 7: Once your name is called, pay for the necessary fees and secure an Official Receipt (OR).

Step 8: Once done, proceed to the Releasing Counter.

Step 9: Present the OR to get the new Certificate of Registration (CR), plates, stickers, and other requested documents.

Step 10: Once you have received the CR and other relevant documents, signs in the CR log book.

Where to File Application for Change in Vehicle Body Design

Filing for a change in the body design of your motor vehicle can be done in any LTO Office, district or extension offices, whichever is more convenient.

Fees for LTO Change Body Design Transactions

The change in body designvçç of motor vehicles will require applicants to pay a total of one hundred pesos (P100.00) in addition to the other regular charges.

Important Reminders

For your reference, here are some things you need to remember when applying for a change in vehicle body:

  • Note that all types of changes are subject to inspection as it needs to be checked for safety.
  • That said, the procedure always comes with other fees. 
  • Changing the body of a motor vehicle is an optional procedure. 
  • It can be done at any of the LTO offices in the Philippines.

Video: Guide on the Requirements for Changing Vehicle Body Design in LTO

You can learn more about the procedures on how to change vehicle body design in LTO by watching this video from MamiZang Vlog.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

To help make your application for change in vehicle body design as painless as possible, we rounded up the most common questions and answers related to it.

1. Can I make more than one type of change to my car? 

Yes. It is possible to make several changes at once but you will have to declare the change with LTO by filing for application to change whatever you wish to change, be it the body, body design, color, or engine/chassis. 

2. Can I apply for the change in car body from any LTO branch office?

Yes. You may file the change body design application at any LTO branch, provided that they offer the service. 

3. Is there a difference when filing for applications for change of body designs between private and for hire vehicles?

Yes. Though the procedures may be similar, there are differences in documentary requirements so make sure you pay attention to it depending on your vehicle classification.

Summary

Changing the vehicle body design is a lot like changing the car body. It may not seem all that important to many people, but for those who value individuality and personal expression, being able to express their individuality through their car is an important procedure. Getting the LTO to check on the modified vehicle ensures that the car stays safe and roadworthy despite the changes and that the LTO is informed that the car has been changed. It’s a simple and straightforward transaction, too, so there’s really no reason to shy away from making changes to your car body design or to not declare making such changes in your motor vehicle. After all, it might even save your life when they find any problems with the modifications.

How to Change Driver’s License Classification from Professional to Non-Professional Driver’s License

An LTO driver’s license (DL) is a government-issued identification document granted by the Land Transportation Office (LTO). Depending on whether you have a Non-Professional (NPDL) or Professional Driver’s License (PDL), a DL holder may have the privilege, both the capability and permission to drive and operate private or public motor vehicles in the Philippines. Both also serve as a valid ID that can be used for various government and private transactions. 

There really isn’t much of a difference between a Non-Professional (NPDL) and a Professional Driver’s License (PDL) except that the latter is allowed to earn money from driving. However, if you do not need a driver’s license for work, you may opt to downgrade your driver’s license and change it from Professional Driver’s License (PDL) to a Non-Professional Driver’s License (NPDL) to save yourself the trouble of going through a more rigorous test. 

change classification of drivers license from pro to non pro

Professional vs. Non-Professional Driver’s License

A Professional Driver’s License (PDL) and a Non-Professional Driver’s License (NPDL) are two different kinds of licenses issued by the LTO in the Philippines. Both give the holder the authority to drive motor vehicles on public roads. 

The two licenses are also different in the sense that you will need to have your Non-Professional Driver’s License (NPDL) for at least twelve (12) months before you can upgrade to a Professional Driver’s License (PDL). While holding a Professional License, you are also allowed to operate motor vehicles for a living, whereas a Non-Professional License holder is a step above a Student Permit holder and can only operate private vehicles on his own for personal use. 

Changing Driver’s License Classification from Professional Driver’s License to Non-Professional Driver’s License

The LTO also allows license holders to change their license classifications from Non-Professional to Professional and vice versa. In this article, we are only talking about changing DL classifications from the Professional Driver’s License to Non-Professional Driver’s License. 

Qualifications

To request for a change in driver’s license classification from professional to non-professional, you must satisfy the following conditions:

  • Must be a holder of Professional Driver’s License

Requirements

Before applying for a change in classification of your driver’s license from professional to non-professional, you need the following documentary requirements:

  • Duly accomplished Application Form for Driver’s License (ADL)

  • Presentation of copy of the medical certificate. (Electronically transmitted to LTO by an LTO-accredited medical clinic)

  • Presentation of original PDL

How to Convert DL from Professional Driver’s License (PDL) to Non-Professional Driver’s License (NPDL)

Step 1: Visit the preferred LTO branch, be it a Licensing Center, Licensing Extension Office, Authorized LTO District Office, or LTO Extension Office, closest to the applicant’s place.

Step 2: Check if they process DL classification changes and if they require an appointment or accept walk-in applicants.

  • If they require an appointment, book an appointment online with LTO ahead of your visit. 

Step 3: Secure a queue number and wait for your turn.

Step 4: Submit the duly accomplished ADL form along with all the requirements and the queue number.

Step 5: Wait for your queue number to be called.

Step 6: Once your name is called, submit the requirements so it can be evaluated for completeness and authenticity.

Step 7: Once the LTO personnel confirms the details from the system, wait for a transaction ID to be generated.

Step 8: Once the transaction ID is generated, proceeds to the cashier for payment of fees.

Step 9: After making the payments, proceed to the encoding / biometric window and complete the form for encoding of complete details in the new LTO-IT system.

Step 10: Wait for a printed copy of the screenshot of the Driver’s License (DL) details from the LTO IT system.

Step 11: After the details are encoded, proceed to the capturing of photo, fingerprints, and signature. 

Step 12: Wait for the DL card to be printed. You will be issued a claim stub and informed by the LTO officer when you can come back to collect your OR (Official Receipt) and your driver’s license.

Step 13: When you return to collect your drivers’ license (DL), once the OR and DL Card is released, you will be asked to sign in the log sheet.

How to Process a DL Classification Change from PDL to NPDL with Additional Restriction Codes (ARC)

Step 1. Visit any LTO office, be it a Licensing Center, Licensing Extension Office, Authorized LTO District Office, or LTO Extension Office near you.

Step 2. Check if they process DL classification changes and if they require an appointment or accept walk-in applicants.

  • If they require an appointment, book an appointment online with LTO ahead of your visit. 

Note: The LTO recently rolled out an online website portal called the Land Transportation Management System (LTMS) which you can use to set up an appointment and transact with LTO. But not all LTO offices in the country are connected to the system just yet. Some offices still accept walk-in applicants so it is very important that you check first before you go.

Step 3. At the LTO office, ask where you can get an Application for Driver’s License (ADL) form. 

Note: To help save you some time, you may also check the LTO website’s LTO Forms section to download the Application for Driver’s License (ADL) form. 

Step 4. Once you have completely accomplished the form, get a queue ticket from the service counter and wait for your number to be called.

Step 5. Submit your completed ADL form and all the requirements, including your queue number.

Step 6. The LTO evaluator will check on the completeness and authenticity of your submissions. 

Step 7. Once everything is confirmed, you will be asked to proceed to the Cashier to pay the application fee.

Step 8. Once paid, you will need to take and pass the LTO exams.

Step 9. Take the written examination:

  • FAILED: If you fail the written examination, you will receive a computer generated letter with this message, “May come back the following day at their convenience.” That’s the end of your transaction.

  • PASSED: If you pass, you will proceed with the practical driving test.

Step 10. Take the actual driving examination.

  • FAILED: If you fail the practical driving test, that’s the end of your transaction.

  • PASSED: Proceed to the Cashier to pay for your license.

Step 11. Once you pass the LTO exams, proceed to the encoding / biometric window and complete the form for encoding your new details into the LTO-IT system.

Step 12. You will be issued a claim stub and informed by the LTO officer when you can come back to collect your OR (Official Receipt) and your driver’s license.

Step 13. When you return to collect your drivers’ license (DL), you will be asked to sign in the log sheet before your license is released to you.

Fees

Like every other LTO transaction, changing the DL classification from professional to non-professional comes with a price. Depending on whether the license is expired or if there’s a need to add restriction codes, you may need to prepare to pay for the following:

Valid PDL to NPDL

  • Application Fee – P 100.00

  • Replacement Fee – P 225.00

  • Change Classification – P 100.00

Total: P 425.00

Expired PDL to NPDL

  • Application Fee – P 100.00

  • Renewal Fee – P 585.00

  • Change Classification – P 100.00

Total: P 785.00 + penalty

Penalty

  • If expired 1 day to 1 year = P 75.00

  • 1 year and 1 day to 2 years = P 150.00

  • 2 years and 1 day to 10 years = P 225.00

Other Fees

Additional DL Code (Restriction Code) = P 100.00

Where to Process DL Change Classification (from PDL to NPDL)

When you need to request for a change in your driver’s license classification from professional to non-professional, you may go to any of the following LTO offices in the Philippines:

  • LTO Licensing Centers

  • Authorized LTO District Offices (DO) 

  • Authorized LTO Extension Offices (EO)

Important Reminders

If, for whatever reason, you decide to change your license classification from professional to non-professional through any of the designated LTO branch offices for licensing transactions, then these are the things you need to remember:

  • The steps on how to apply or renew pro and non-pro driver’s license are quite the same, as they include the requirement for application and validation, picture and signature, fee payment, written professional or non-professional driver’s license, and passing test, as well as actual driving skills tests.

  • The LTO exams are longer for professional driver’s license applicants.

  • Prepare all the documentary requirements (including the photocopies) before going to the LTO Office to avoid delays.

  • Visit the LTO office early, so you can finish it within the day. 

  • Regardless of license type, the driver’s license is usually released within the day of the application, though this may change depending on the office you’re transacting with.

  • As long as the general requirements are met, anyone can be eligible for an LTO DL Classification change. 

  • It is also possible to change classification from NPDL to PDL.

  • There is a different process if you wish to change classification from NPDL to PDL and add a restriction code at the same time.

  • You will need to create an online account to use the Land Transportation Management System (LTMS) portal online and to set up an appointment and transact with LTO. But not all LTO offices in the country are connected to the system just yet. Some offices still accept walk-in applicants so it is very important that you check first before you go.

  • You will need to take the LTO exams if you need to add more restriction codes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

For your reference, here are some of the most common questions and answers regarding changing DL classification from pro to non-pro licenses.

1. Where can I find the information on my license classification? 

If you need to check your new LTO driver’s license for the license classification and vehicular restrictions, you may check the back of your license card. The license class information is in there, unlike the old one which has the information on the front side.

2. Is it possible to add more restriction codes while processing a classification change?

Yes. You may add more restriction codes but it will require you to take both written and practical exams. Plus, there’s an additional fee of Php 100.00 for additional restriction codes.

3. Do I need to take the LTO exams when requesting for a DL Classification Change?

It depends. Here’s the guide regarding classification change and LTO exams:

  • For those whose driver’s license has expired for more than two (2) years, they must first take and pass the Practical Driving Test. 

  • If the Professional License is valid and if there’s no additional DL code, only a written examination will be conducted.

  • If the Professional License is valid and if there’s an additional DL code, written and practical LTO examinations for the DL code applied for will be given.

  • If the Professional License is expired, you will take a written and practical examination.

  • If the Professional License is dormant, you are also required to pass the written and practical examinations.

Summary

Changing your Driver’s License Classification is easy, isn’t it. You simply need to ensure that you meet all the general requirements, pass the LTO exams as needed, and make sure to pay the fees. Then, you’ll need to visit an LTO licensing center or other LTO offices in the Philippines that cater to license applications and renewals and request for the change. Of course, it’s not free and you will need to pay for the relevant fees, especially if you are adding more DL codes. and get your biometrics logged before you can receive the new NPDL card which reflects the new driver’s license classification. It’s a pretty simple process and it doesn’t even take that much time as long as you go prepared, so it’s best to get it done and avoid hefty penalties when you get caught driving vehicle types you aren’t authorized to be driving at all. However, do note that for PDL to NPDL change, there might be an easier process since you’ll be restricting yourself to driving only for personal use. 

List of LTO Driver’s License Classification

Driver’s are not the same everywhere. There are, in fact, different types of drivers as categorized by the different classifications of driver’s licenses (DL). In the Philippines, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) regulates the drivers and identifies who can drive what vehicle through the different LTO Driver’s License classifications. 

The different DL classifications exist so that the drivers of different types of vehicles can be categorized accordingly. You can get a certain class of driver’s license depending on your age, competence, the type of vehicles you can drive, how long you have been driving, as well as if you are driving for a living or not. Though the procedures for getting a driver’s license is generally the same for all types, there’s an innate difference in the driving tests and requirements, too. You can learn more about the different driver’s license classifications here.

drivers license classification in lto

What is an LTO Driver’s License (DL)

An LTO driver’s license is essentially a driving permit or a legal authorization expressly written in an official document confirming such an authorization, issued by the government (LTO, in particular) to an individual so they can legally operate one or more types of motorized vehicles—like motorcycles, cars, trucks, or buses—on a public road. These different license types are often made from plastic and take the size of a credit card.

The driver’s license issued by LTO also has different categories or classifications. Each type offers different levels of permission to drive. The type or class of driver’s license you can get highly depends on your age, competence, the type of vehicles you can drive, how long you have been driving, as well as if you are driving for a living or not. It also defines where you can legally drive a motor vehicle. Though the license application procedures are generally the same, there are different evaluation procedures, requirements, and fees for each class, and the difficulty of the driving test also varies considerably between DL classes.

LTO Driver’s License (DL) Classifications

There are several classifications for LTO driver’s licenses in the Philippines. As of writing, there are three types of driver’s licenses currently being issued in the country.

Student Permit

One of the most exciting parts of becoming an adult is taking care of things only adults are allowed to do, just like driving. In the Philippines, every driver is required to go through a “student” phase, the period when they need to secure a student permit and operate a motor vehicle in public, under the guidance of either a non-professional or professional licensed driver. It’s like the first step to take or the first level in getting a driver’s license, so to speak. For some, it is a rite of passage—one that many teenagers look forward to.

To secure a student permit, the interested applicant needs a notarized letter from either a parent or guardian (for minors), proof of identity (original and certified true copy (CTC) of your PSA-authenticated birth certificate with receipt or original and photocopy of your passport), and Taxpayer’s Identification Number (TIN). Of course, it’s a given that the applicant must be at least 18 years old, physically and mentally stable, and able to speak and understand English and Tagalog.

Non-Professional Driver’s License (NPDL)

Tired of being chaperoned in your own ride? Well, if you are of age and have survived a month on a student permit, then you can go on and secure your first government-issued ID card by applying for the Non-Professional Driver’s License. This license classification is designed for rookie drivers fresh out of the “student” phase as well as those who have no intention of driving a public vehicle or any motor vehicle for a living. It is the perfect license for those who intend to drive private vehicles that weigh no more than 4500 kilograms, including hatchbacks, pick-up trucks, or sports utility vehicles (SUVs).

To secure an NPDL, applicants must pass the written examination composed of 40 randomized questions by acquiring at least 30 correct answers. Other requirements include a valid student permit that is at least a month old, a medical certificate electronically transmitted from any LTO-accredited medical clinic, doctor, or if you are a military personnel, a valid AFP/PNP organic personnel ID and a negative drug test result from a DOH-certified drug testing facility, a clearance certificate from either NBI, court, or commanding officer (which applies only to medical personnel).

Professional Driver’s License (PDL)

However, if you are securing a driver’s license in the name of pursuing a career as a public utility vehicle (PUV) driver or a commercial driver in the Philippines, what you will need is neither a student driver’s permit nor a Non-Professional Driver’s License but a Professional Driver’s License (PDL). This is a requirement for drivers who intend to operate vehicles that weigh more than 4600 kilograms like bulldozers and other heavy construction vehicles.

To apply for this class of driver’s license, applicants must be at least 18 years old, has secured a medical certificate electronically transmitted from any LTO-accredited medical clinic or doctor or, if you are a military personnel, a valid AFP/PNP organic personnel ID, a negative drug test result from a DOH-certified drug testing facility, and a clearance certificate from either NBI, court or commanding officer (applicable only for medical personnel). Unlike the written examination for Non-Professional Driver’s License, a Professional Driver’s License requires you to secure a score of at least 45 out of 60 random questions which can either be in English or in Tagalog.

Other Driver License Not Issued by the LTO

Aside from the LTO-issued driver’s license, there is another type of driving license that citizens can acquire to be able to drive legally on public roads.

International Driver’s License/Permit (IDP)

An international driver’s license, otherwise known as the international driver’s permit (IDP), is a license issued to permanent residents of the Philippines who would like to be able to use their license to drive a motor vehicle freely on the roads of over 150 other countries in the world, except for Australia and Spain which allow Filipinos to operate vehicles with either their professional or non-professional license. 

Unlike the LTO driver’s license, the IDP is only issued at the Automobile Association Philippines (AAP), the country’s biggest and oldest auto club committed to the general welfare of motorists in the Philippines. To secure an IDP, motorists applicants need to submit two (2) photocopies of their current driver’s license and two (2) 2×2 pictures with white background.

Important Reminders

If you wish to secure any of these driver’s license, you’d want to take note of these tips and reminders:

  • If it’s your first time to secure a driver’s license, you will need to start with a student permit before you can apply for the other classes. 

  • In Spain and Australia, regular LTO-issued driver’s license, whether Non-Professional or Professional driver’s license, can be used.

  • Non-professional driver’s license (NPDL) issued for the first time is only valid for five (5) years.

  • Holders of license with five-year validity must take the PME within 60 days before their 3rd birthdate from the issuance of their license.

  • Those with a ten-year license, must undergo their PME before their 4th and 7th birthdays from the issuance of their license.

  • For those who are securing an LTO driver’s license, you may do so via the Land Transport Management System (LTMS) online portal.

  • Regardless if you are initiating the driver’s license in person or online, you will need a medical certificate electronically transmitted to the LTO by an LTO-accredited medical clinic. 

Video: How to Get a Non-Professional LTO Driver’s License in the Philippines

For a clearer guide on how to secure an LTO Non-Professional driver’s license (NPDL), you may check out this video guide posted by It’s Ally.

https://youtu.be/l2TX1Zupn1c

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions and answers regarding the LTO Driver’s License in the Philippines:

1. Does the LTO accept online driver’s license applications?

Yes. Applications for an LTO driver’s license may be done online if you register an account on the LTMS portal. You might still need to visit an LTO office though, especially for NPDL and PDL as you will need to take the LTO exams before a driver’s license can be issued to you. You may also apply for any LTO driver’s license through any of the LTO branches nationwide, though you’d want to check first if you need an appointment or if they entertain walk-in applicants. 

2. How long is the validity period of an LTO driver’s license?

Depending on the license classification, the following validity period may apply: 

  • For Student Permits: The validity period is one year. 

  • For first-time professional and non-professional driver’s licenses as well as those who are renewing with traffic violations: The validity period is five years. 

  • For those with NPDL or PDL with a clean record: The license may be renewed with a 10-year validity period as per Republic Act 10930.

3. Where can I find the expiry date of my driver’s license?

If you are looking for the expiry date of your driver’s license, then you can find it on the card’s front side. The validity period of your DL will also depend on whether your license is issued before or after your birthday. If your license was issued before your birthday, the current year is included in the validity period. Otherwise, the current year is not included when counting the validity period. 

4. Where can I find the information on my license classification? 

If you need to check your LTO driver’s license for the license class and DL code, then you can turn your license card face-down and look. The license classification information is in the back, unlike the old one which is on the front side.

Summary

When it comes to driving, it is imperative to consider the age, competence, the type of vehicles you can drive, how long the driver has been driving, as well as if they are doing it for the money or not. It is because these factors decide how well they can drive safely and if they deserve to be allowed on the road with a motor vehicle. After all, the main goal of issuing a driver’s license and having restriction codes added is to regulate the drivers by allowing only the responsible and roadworthy ones to ensure not just their safety, but also the safety of the people around.  It is important to understand the difference between the different driver’s license classifications not only because there are varying processes of its application but also because the classification can tell a lot about how well the driver can keep the motor vehicles and the roads safe.

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